Partnerships
Partnerships are at the core of how we do business. We work with partners on almost every aspect of land management.
Our partners include a number of federal agencies, the Commonwealth of Virginia, local cities and counties, conservation organizations, universities, concessionaires and private citizens. Partners provide assistance through a number of avenues including grants, collaborative work projects and volunteer efforts.
If you are interested in partnering with the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, contact your local district office to find out how to get involved.
Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
We work closely with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources to manage wildlife habitat that supports Virginia’s fish and game animals. Funds derived from the sale of the special hunting and fishing permits through Virginia’s National Forest Stamp program are used on the National Forest to restore habitat and enhance hunting and fishing opportunities. Projects are a cooperative effort between the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, the National Forest, and partners such as The Wild Turkey Federation and Trout Unlimited.
Potomac Appalachian Trail Club
The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) was founded in 1927 on volunteerism and public service to outdoor enthusiasts in the Mid-Atlantic region. Almost a century ago a small contingent of PATC volunteers began constructing and maintaining trails on national forest lands in Virginia and West Virginia. One trail they constructed is now the Big Schloss Trail. Today PATC volunteers maintain over 225 miles of trails and 3 trail shelters on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests’ Lee and North River Ranger Districts. PATC writes and produces trail guide books and companion topographic maps to aid trail users. PATC also manages and maintains the 250 mile Tuscarora Trail, of which 60 miles pass through the Lee Ranger District.